Why Does God Allow Suffering? Finding Christ Through Severe Depression - Mahjolee Kershaw | 158

I speak with Mahjolee Kershaw in this week’s episode who shares her deeply moving and vulnerable journey through severe health crises, losing her faith as a teenager, and finding her way back to Jesus Christ. After grappling with severe depression, an undiagnosed autoimmune disease, and feelings of isolation, Mahjolee experienced a powerful turning point that helped her realize God's intimate love for each of His children.We explore the difficult question of why a loving God allows suffering, how to overcome the fear and anxiety of returning to church after a period away, and the profound connection between secular science, mental wellness, and spiritual healing.Some highlights from this episode include:Falling Away in Plain Sight: Mahjolee opens up about serving in youth presidencies and attending church for show while internally feeling disconnected from God, navigating an eating disorder, and battling severe depression and suicidality.The Turning Point in Crisis: The harrowing medical emergency that landed Mahjolee in the hospital, leading to an autoimmune diagnosis and the realization that God had granted her a second chance at life.Returning to Church and Overcoming Fear: Practical advice on how to step back into a congregation when feeling insecure, alongside guidance for active members on showing Christlike love without overwhelming those who return.Finding Purpose in Pain: How a simple Sunday School lesson reshaped Mahjolee's understanding of suffering—recognizing that while God doesn't cause our trials, He can transform our deepest pain into purpose to help others.The Science of the Atonement: How studying psychology, neuroscience, and human physiology reinforced Mahjolee’s testimony of Jesus Christ, including medical insights into the physical and emotional agony of a broken heart.Life Help and Resources:https://www.churchofjesuschrist.org/study/life-help/suicide?lang=engFollow For All The Saints on social media for updates and inspiring content:www.instagram.com/forallthesaintspodhttps://www.facebook.com/forallthesaintspod/For All The Saints episodes are released every Monday on YouTube, Spotify, Apple Podcasts and more:https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=TVDUQg_qZIU&list=UULFFf7vzrJ2LNWmp1Kl-c6K9Qhttps://open.spotify.com/show/3j64txm9qbGVVZOM48P4HS?si=bb31d048e05141f2https://podcasts.apple.com/gb/podcast/for-all-the-saints/id1703815271If you have feedback or any suggestions for topics or guests, connect with Ben & Sean via [email protected] or DM on InstagramConversations to Refresh Your Faith.